Time Began in a Garden

IT'S BEEN A GOOD RUN

2009-11-16T06:24:00.003-06:00

For a little more than 3 1/2 years I have been posting and you have been "clicking on". Often responding with comments that have been encouraging, heartfelt, funny, and wise just to conjure up a few adjectives.
Thanks for each and every one.
They have meant a lot to me.

But I think perhaps it is time to close this blog. At least for now.
I cannot do this without thanking the One who supplied the abundance of beauty posted here season after season....both in the unending glory of His creation found in nature, the faces of friends and loved ones, and the eternal Words of Truth gleaned from the pages of Scripture and the pens of those who down through the years understood the wisdom and guidance for abundant living found there.
Again, thanks for "tuning in", and with the recommendation to you to check out :http://www.spurgeon.org/fcb/fcb.cgi. (I've put it on my favorites)

I remain as always, Blessed

GUARDING LIBERTY V

2009-11-13T06:23:00.000-06:00

"On every question of construction of the Constitution, let us carry ourselves back to the time when the Constitution was adopted, recollect the spirit manifested in the debates, and instead of trying what meaning may be squeezed out of the text, or invented against it, conform to the probable one in which it was passed." Thomas Jefferson

GUARDING LIBERTY IV

2009-11-12T06:25:00.000-06:00

"The ultimate authority...resides in the people alone."

"It is proper to take alarm at the first experiment upon our liberties.
We hold this prudent jealousy to be the first duty of citizens and one of the the noblest characteristics of the late Revolution."
James Madison

GUARDING LIBERTY III

2009-11-11T06:21:00.001-06:00

"Those who would give up essential liberty, to purchase a little temporary safety, deserve neither liberty nor safety." Benjamin Franklin

Remember our veterans and give thanks.

GUARDING LIBERTY II

2009-11-10T06:36:00.000-06:00

"The liberties of our country, the freedom of our civil Constitution, are worth defending at all hazards." Samuel Adams

GUARDING LIBERTY

2009-11-09T06:28:00.002-06:00

"The liberties of a people never were, or ever will be, secure, when the transactions of their rulers may be concealed from them." Patrick Henry

A BEAUTIFUL DAY

2009-11-06T06:22:00.000-06:00

Worked outside again yesterday....could not believe how aboslutely glorious the day was. And we are promised more of the same for the next few days.
I really enjoy the change of seasons. Like to decorate inside and out.
This is the wreath on the garage door.

"The jaws of power are always open to devour, and her arm is always stretched out, if possible, to destroy the freedom of thinking, speaking, and writing." John Adams

GREEN, GREEN MOSS

2009-11-05T06:23:00.000-06:00

"It is incument on every generation to pay its own debts as it goes.

A principle which if acted on would save one-half the wars of the world." Thomas Jefferson

NOT GIVING UP

2009-11-04T06:19:00.000-06:00

When we were "winterizing" the garden, I cut this plant to the ground.
Well, as you can see, it wasn't ready to be "winterized"!
Isn't it pretty?

Going to be posting a few thoughts from our Founders.
" The democracy will cease to exist when you take away from those who are willing to work and give to those who would not." Thomas Jefferson

THE LATEST THING IN KITCHEN GADGETS

2009-11-03T06:27:00.001-06:00

Well, it was in c. 1950 anyway....That's the year Mom got her brand new shiney "Salad Master"
Mother really liked slaw, and she made the best around; so when this product came on the market, she invested . It could cut up cabbage faster than one could imagine.
Last week when I was preparing a simple supper for a few friends, I decided to "dig out" said salad wizard that had been packed away for a very long time. It worked great, and in just a few minutes I had a bowl of shredded cabbage and carrots ready for Mom's homade dressing.

Mom had even
kept the
instruction book.

It was a fun trip down memory lane for me.
Everyone seemed to enjoy the old fashioned slaw too.

DROP BY SOME TIME

2009-11-02T06:23:00.001-06:00

The "Welcome Sign" is out.

Haven't the past two days of blue skies and sunshine been absolutely glorious?

There's nothing like a few dreary, rainy days to make us appreciate the warmth and light of the sun.

Must be a lesson there somewhere.

Happy November. Let's not wait until Thanksgiving Day to be grateful.

It's a good way to begin every day.

THANK YOU, PEGGY

2009-10-23T06:21:00.000-05:00

You can't eat this pumpkin, but it has become one of my favorite fall decorations.
Peggy 2 brought it to me several years ago, and I always look forward to putting it out.
Unexpected gifts, "just because" are such fun!

YUM YUM

2009-10-22T06:27:00.001-05:00

"Vegetables are an important part of any healthy diet.
May I suggest carrot cake, zucchini bread and pumpkin pie!"
Jim Davis quotes
Isn't fall eating grand?

CAN YOU COME OUT AND PLAY?

2009-10-21T06:20:00.001-05:00

When the work was all done and we went back into the house; kitty was feeling a bit left out.

"A cat's worst enemy is a closed door." From Cat Wisdom.com

FENCE SITTING

2009-10-20T06:23:00.000-05:00

While we were working in the garden Saturday, kitty decided to get a "ring-side" view in order to watch all the "goings-on".

She kept
getting
closer and
closer..

Until she
finally got
really
involved
in the
trimming
of the
honeysuckle.

"You will always be lucky if you know how to make friends with strange cats." Colonial Proverb

FALL CLEANUP

2009-10-19T06:22:00.000-05:00

Brad and Brandy came up this weekend, and we worked and worked to get the garden "winterized"
Tools of
the trade...

A few
finishing
touches.

It feels so good to have things all ready for winter.
Thanks Brad and Brandy.
Will probably plant a few bulbs, and then the job will be complete.

"There is a time for everything, and a season for every activity under heaven."
Ecclesiastes 3:1
Aren't God's plans wonderful?

HARVEST TIME

2009-10-16T06:14:00.001-05:00

Farmer Jones is anticipating a good crop this year.

"For the unlearned, old age is winter, for the learned, it is the season of the harvest." from The Talmud Quotes
"Check and make certain you are planting good seeds.....love, joy, kindness, faith, forgiveness, encouragement, respect, generosity etc.; for you will surely reap what you have sown." Blessed

A LITTLE "CAT NAP"

2009-10-15T05:56:00.000-05:00

Kitty cat loves to curl up in Mr. Scaregrows's lap.

THE KEY

2009-10-14T06:17:00.000-05:00

"If we try to influence or elevate others, we shall soon see that success is in proportion to their belief of our belief in them."
Henry Drummond

FAITH

2009-10-13T06:32:00.000-05:00

"The eternal life, the life of faith, is simply the life of the higher vision.
Faith is an attitude--a mirror set at the right angle."
From The Changed Life. Henry Drummond

SHADOWS

2009-10-12T06:09:00.000-05:00

I really enjoy the shadows that appear on my walls at various times of the day during the changing seasons.

"How the love of God melts down the unlovely heart in man, and begets in him the new creature, who is patient, and humble, and gentle, and unselfish.
And there is no other way to get it.
There is no mystery about it.
We love others because He first loved us."
Henry Drummond

"Therefore if anyone be in Christ, he is a new creation; the old is gone, the new has come."

2nd Corinthians 5:17

TOUCHES OF FALL III

2009-10-07T06:19:00.001-05:00

Proverbs 26:17
"Like one who seizes a dog by the ears is a passer-by who meddles in a quarrel not his own."

TOUCHES OF FALL II

2009-10-06T06:22:00.000-05:00

Proverbs 25:28
"Like a city whose walls are broken down is a man who lacks self-control."

TOUCHES OF FALL

2009-10-05T06:22:00.000-05:00

Proverbs 14:34
"Righteousness exalts a nation,
but sin is a disgrace to any people."

FIRM WAYS

2009-10-02T06:28:00.000-05:00

Proverbs 4: 20-27
"My son, pay attention to what I say; listen closely to my words.
Do not let them out of your sight, keep them within your heart;
for they are life to those who find them and health to a man's whole body.
Above all else, guard your heart, for it is the wellspring of life.
Put away perversity from your mouth; keep corrupt talk far from your lips.
Let your eyes look straight ahead, fix your gaze directly before you.
Make level paths for your feet, and take only ways that are firm.
Do not swerve to the right or the left;
keep your foot from evil.

SOUNDNESS OF JUDGMENT

2009-10-01T06:14:00.001-05:00

Proverbs 3: 21-24
"My son, preserve sound judgment and discernment, do not let them out of your sight;
they will be life for you,
an ornament to grace your neck.
Then you will go on your way in safety, and your foot will not stumble;
when you lie down, you will not be afraid;
when you lie down, your sleep will be sweet."

NOTHING TO COMPARE

2009-09-30T05:54:00.000-05:00

Proverbs 3: 11-12
"My son, do not despise the Lord's discipline and do not resent his rebuke,
because the Lord disciplines those he loves, as a father corrects the son he delights in."

WHO DO YOU TRUST?

2009-09-29T05:54:00.001-05:00

Proverbs 3: 5-7
"Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding;
in all your ways acknowledge him and he will direct your paths.
Do not be wise in your own eyes; fear the Lord and shun evil.
This will bring health to your body and nourishment to your bones."

A MIXED BOUQUET

2009-09-28T06:18:00.000-05:00

Rose and Daisies...the lingering of summer.
Berries and Chinese Lanterns...the promise of autumn.

Proverbs 3: 16
"My son, do not forget my teaching, but keep my commands in your heart, for they will prolong your life many years and bring you prosperity.
Let love and faithfulness never leave you; bind them around your neck, write them on the tablet of your heart.
Then you will win favor and a good name in the sight of God and man."

BENEFITS OF WISDOM continued

2009-09-25T06:12:00.001-05:00

Proverbs 2: 6-11

"For the Lord gives wisdom, and from his mouth come knowledge and understanding.
He holds victory in store for the upright, he is a shield to those whose walk is blameless,
for he guards the course of the just and protects the way of his faithful ones.
Then you will understand what is right and just and fair--every good path.
For wisdom will enter your heart, and knowledge will be pleasant to your soul.
Discretion will protect you, and understanding will guard you."

BENEFITS OF WISDOM

2009-09-24T07:04:00.001-05:00

Proverbs 2: 1-5

"My son, (and daughter), if you accept my words and store up my commands within you, turning your ear to wisdom and applying your heart to understanding, and if you look for it as silver and search for it as for hidden treasure,
then you will understand the fear of the Lord and find the knowledge of God."

BEGINNING AT THE BEGINNING

2009-09-23T06:21:00.001-05:00

For those who might be interested, in the days ahead, I have chosen to share from the Proverbs of Solomon, son of David, king of Israel, as found in the Holy Bible.

According to the prologue, Proverbs was written to give "prudence to the simple, knowledge and discretion to the young and to make wise men wiser."

Although Proverbs is a practical book dealing with the art of living, it bases wisdom solidly on the fear of the Lord
There it begins...and therefore it should be understood that all that follows in the days ahead is based on this foundation.

Proverbs 1:1-7

"The proverbs of Solomon, for attaining wisdom and discipline; for understanding words of insight; for acquiring a disciplined and prudent life,
doing what is right and just and fair; for giving prudence to the simple, knowledge and discretion to the young--let the wise listen and add to their learning, and let the discerning get guidance--for understanding proverbs and parables, the sayings and riddles of the wise.

The fear of the Lord is the beginning of knowledge, but fools despise wisdom and discipline."

A BOUQUET FOR THE BEDROOM

2009-09-22T06:19:00.001-05:00

"We do not demand of nature directly to prove religion. That was never its fuction.
Its function is to interpret. And this, after all, is possibly the mosst fruitful proof. " Henry Drummond

INTRODUCING ELLIE

2009-09-21T06:26:00.005-05:00

When I was growing up, there was a phrase that was used when someone had suddenly and unexpectantly come into a stroke of very good fortune. We would say, "you lucky dog, you!".
Well, here
is one...

Her name is Ellie, and she, by the rather sudden and you might say, a bit unexpected stroke of very good fortune, has become a permanent resident at Peggy and Mike's.
Up until just a week or so ago, her life had been, to say the least, a bit unstable and her future was looking a little precarious.
But not any more.
Everyone in the extended family, and circle of friends thinks she is absolutely adorable!
She loves chasing leaves, making friends with all she meets, and chewing.

Welcome to our world, Ellie Rosenthal.

By the way, I think we all might really be "the lucky dogs!".

STEMS AND LEAVES V

2009-09-18T06:22:00.001-05:00

"If God had a wallet,
your picture would be in it! " : )

Have a great weekend!

STEMS AND LEAVES IV

2009-09-17T06:08:00.000-05:00

"Wherever you go today,
God will be there." Anonymous

STEMS AND LEAVES III

2009-09-16T06:16:00.001-05:00

"Let us not become weary in doing good,
for at the proper time we will reap a harvest
if we do not give up."
Galations 6:9

STEMS AND LEAVES II

2009-09-15T06:25:00.000-05:00

A little tip from me....
Can't sleep? Don't count sheep.
Talk to the Shepherd.

STEMS AND LEAVES

2009-09-14T06:18:00.003-05:00

"Prayer makes your heart bigger...until it is capable of containing the gift of God Himself." Mother Teresa

Happy Birthday, Curtis (yesterday)

GLORIOUS MORNINGS

2009-09-11T06:21:00.001-05:00

"To love condtionally is against God's nature. Just as it's against your nature to eat trees and against mine to grow wings, it's against God's nature to remember forgiven sins." Max Lucado
"I will forgive their wickedness and will remember their sins no more." Hebrews 8:12

MORNING GLORIES IN THE ALLEY

2009-09-10T06:15:00.001-05:00

"Jesus offers the invitation as a penniless rabbi in an oppressed nation. He has no political office, no connections with the authorities in Rome. He hasn't written a bestseller or earned a diploma. Yet, He dares to look into the cynical eyes of the one who is afraid to believe; the hungry eyes of the one who has "tried it all", and still feels empty; the tired eyes of the weary housewife and mother, and say, 'Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest' Matthew 11:28."
Max Lucado

MORNING GLORY

2009-09-09T06:22:00.000-05:00

"Our values are messed up...Thrills are going for top dollar and the value of human beings is at an all-time low...Life is reduccd to weekends, paychecks, and quick thrills. The bottom line is disaster...Now please understand, this is man's value system.
It is not God's. His plan is much brighter." Max Lucado

"Wisdom is supreme; therefore get wisdom. Though it cost all you have, get understanding." Proverbs 4:7

REACHING....

2009-09-08T06:24:00.001-05:00

This is my view as I sit in the recliner in my bedroom.
For some time now I have been wondering why the plant on the media cabinet seemed to be growing always to the side.

And then one day I realized why.
It was seeking the light.....

Jesus said, "I am the light of the world. He who follows me shall not walk in darkness, but will have the light of life." John 8:12

"Keep your face turned to Christ as the flowers do to the light. Look, and your soul shall live and grow." Hannah Whitall Smith

Happy Birthday, Brad

A SECOND BLOOMING

2009-09-07T06:22:00.001-05:00

After a few months of apparent dormancy, the red rose is once again in glorious bloom.

"Anyone with a spiritual base understands humility.
When you start using the words 'I' and 'me' too often, you get into trouble."
Denzel Washington

A STRANGE THING

2009-09-04T06:17:00.000-05:00

I know this looks as though a vine has outgrown its container.
But it is really a plant that is growing right out of the bricks of the garage.

Determined
indeed.

"Every accomplishment begins with a decision to try." author unknown

IN THE AIR

2009-09-03T06:18:00.001-05:00

Gathered
these
in an
early
morning
walk
yesterday.

"When the still air and still in summertime
a leaf has had enough of this, it seems
To make up its mind to do; fine as a sage
Its drifting in detachment down the road." Howard Nemerov

MORNING

2009-09-02T06:18:00.000-05:00

"Morning is the best of all times in the garden.
The sun is not yet hot. Sweet vapors rise from the earth. Night dew clings to the soil and makes plants glisten. Birds call to one another and bees are already at work." William Longgood

BELATED BIRTHDAY CELEBRATION

2009-09-01T07:26:00.001-05:00

I journeyed to Cape this past weekend. Enjoyed seeing Sami Gross (Carolyn's daughter) in an outstanding production of God Spell.
Stayed at my dear friend Helen Ueleke's lovely apartment. Saturday morning Carolyn came over for breakfast (fresh fruit and Helen's famous cinnamon rolls) and she brought the traveling "Birthday Basket" which was filled to overflowing with presents collected since last year.
We have been keeping up this tradition for many years and it is great fun.
Now I will fill it for her birthday in December.

Upon doning
our birthday
hats, we sing
and then
open the
goodies.

She always
picks such
pretty
things.

Carolyn and I were born the same year, and have been friends ever since.

If you are wondering what year that was, we also share a birthday year with Steak and Shake. Which birthday? You can do the math.
They are still going strong... and so are we!
Our thanks to them for the hats.

"No wise man ever wished to be younger." Jonathan Swift

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jonathan_Swift

GOODBYE TO AUGUST

2009-08-31T06:18:00.000-05:00

It's called a "Hummingbird Flower". I brought the seeds from Cape, and save some each year to replant.

This year, Mother Nature has chosen to "upholster" the garden bench with this beauty. If you sit very quietly, a hummingbird will come up and feed on the tiny red blossoms, flitting from one to another until it gets it fill. What a delight!

"August rushes by like desert rainfall, A flood of frenzied upheaval, Expected, But still catching me unprepared. Like a matchflame Bursting on the scene, Heat and haze of crimson sunsets.
Like a dream Of moon and dark barely recalled, A moment, Shadows caught in a blink.
Like a quick kiss; One wishes for more But it suddenly turns to leave, Dragging summer away. " Elizabeth Maua Taylor

JUST HAD TO SHARE

2009-08-28T06:10:00.001-05:00

The bell rang, the doors were closed; but this little fellow just kept going back and forth trying to figure out how to get it.

His Dad kept calling to him to come along.

And he finally had to go.
Maybe next year.

Well, that's the first day of school for 2009.
I will now enjoy seeing them come and go each day, knowing that they have come to a safe place, where they will be taught not just the 3 R's, but the love of God, respect for each other and the value of life.
"Learning is a treasure that will follow its owner everywhere." Chinese Proverb

WHAT'S IN THE BAGS?

2009-08-27T06:20:00.000-05:00

This year there was something new going on. Almost all the children were bringing large shopping bags in addition to their books.
I finally realized they were bringing paper goods. Paper towels, toilet paper and tissues.
Pretty smart idea don't you think.
"You learn something everyday if you pay attention." Ray LeBlond

RE: BACKPACKS

2009-08-26T06:22:00.003-05:00

When I went to school, we simply carried our books and I am somehow in awe of the styles, colors etc. of the backpacks.

But mostly I am amazed at the size!

"Just one more
step to go!"

I suppose you could always get a little help from Mom.

"If a doctor, lawyer or dentist had 40 people in their office at one time, all of whom had different needs, and some of whom didn't want to be there and were causing trouble, and the doctor, lawyer, or dentist, without assistance, had to treat them all with professional excellence for nine months, then he might have some conception of the classroom teacher's job." Donald D. Quinn

IT'S A FAMILY EVENT

2009-08-25T06:19:00.000-05:00

It's nice to have Dad leading the way.

It's always a really busy time.

And sometimes Granddad comes along.

It's sort of like, "what do we do now".

"There are three good reasons to be a teacher - June, July, and August." Author Unknown
Actually, I do believe that the teachers and staff at St. Ambrose really look forward to the children coming back. They, like teachers everywhere, share the top of my list of folks that I admire.

More tomorrow....

FACELIFT

2009-08-24T06:24:00.001-05:00

Came home one day and this was sitting across the street.

Knew that something was about to happen.

Getting all "scrubbed up" for ....

The First Day of
School.

It's one of my favorite days of the year.
More tomorrow...
"The object of education is to prepare the young to educate themselves throughout their lives." Robert Maynard Hutchins
I'm still working on mine. : )

EPILOGUE

2009-08-21T06:16:00.005-05:00

Just thinking...
If I would try to describe our RKT vacation in one word, there would be many to choose from. Wonderful, exciting, heartwarming, memorable etc. But on this day I would like to choose: Contrast.
For example, the ways we traveled. From six-lane interstates to one-lane
winding mountain roads. The food we enjoyed. From a wonderful home cooked dinner, to a simple, but delicious picnic lunch, to fine dining, to "leftovers". And I could go on.
But what struck me most in this category of extremes were these two homes.

And once again I quote from other sources:
"Neighbors helped each other. They sometimes made social events out of work: cornhuskings, beanstringings, molasses makings. They gathered for church "dinners on the ground", and spelling bees at school, for there was no one's home large enough to accommodate these gatherings of friends and neighbors."
Cades Cove Guidebook
"Finding a way to put everything to good use, that was a way of life in the Smokies. It wasn't just about taking care of what we'd been given. It was about survival, about trying every day, every minute to make things a little bit better." Dolly Parton as told to Guidepost magazine.
"Successful living consisted of using whatever resources were available, in the most efficient and skillful way. The people here operated on that principle and their buildings tell us that, and that is why we preserve them. Roaring Fork was and always will be a 'place of being', a place to get lost for a few moments, while regathering human strength from its original sources." Roaring Fork Guidebook

"George and Edith Vanderbilt welcomed their guests to relax and enjoy all that the estate offered. The 102-step Grand Staircase stretches to the fourth floor....The main floor includes the Entrance Hall, A Winter Garden, Billiard Room and Smoking Room, Banquet Hall, which because of it's mass dimensions, had special furniture designed for it, including two built-in gilt-trimmed throne chairs, and an oak dining table with 67 chairs . On this floor are also The Breakfast Room, Salon, Music Room, Tapestry Gallery, and a Library that housed more than 10,000 volumes in eight languages. The second story was home to the Vanderbilt's private bedrooms and sitting area, as well as a series of guest suites. On the third floor we find guest bedrooms that are named for their location, works of art, or for artists whose works are displayed. House parties often lasted for days or weeks, and plenty of bedrooms were needed for their guests whose calling cards could be posted on each door--lest visitors lose their way among the many bedrooms on this level. Both of the floors that housed guest rooms also had "Living Halls" where guests could go to relax, listen to music, write letters, and unwind after dinner."
Your Guide to Biltmore House
I must stop here and share a comment overheard at this point of our tour. "I don't understand how anyone with this much money needs to 'unwind'."
Something to maybe ponder...

Don't get me wrong. I certainly wouldn't have wanted to work and raise a family under the challenges of the folks who lived in Cades Cove or Roaring Fork.

And although I realize that the families who lived in the mansions of this era played a big role in the growth and expansion of this nation, living in a place with over 250 rooms wouldn't suit me at all.

Maybe there's an in-between sort of place for me...say a place like "The Hill"...where God and family are held dear, where church and school are at the center of community life, where people came and worked hard to make a better life for themselves and their children. A place where people sit on their porches and passers-by stop to chat, or you visit over the back fence or even in the alley. A place where neighbors help each other and gather sometimes for festivals and good times. A kind of "old-fashioned" place in a "big city" setting. Maybe that's the place for me.

It was such a wonderful week, and I will never forget it, but it's good to be "home".

Have a great weekend....and remember we are all "blessed".

WHAT A WEEK IT WAS

2009-08-20T06:19:00.001-05:00

On the last evening, we had our traditional "night out".

A great supper and then off to see The Comedy Barn Theatre http://www.comedybarn.com/ where we laughed until our sides hurt.

Picked up two sacks of ice cream on the way home, and indulged...in some cases eating directly out of the carton!

The next morning, one final trip into the park.

My thanks to Curt and family for the ride.
I loved my little "nest" in the back of the van.

And so we end our adventure to The Great Smokey Mountains. But the memories linger on.

Let's never underestimate the power of the extended family.

"The lack of emotional security of so many of our American young people is due, I believe, to their isolation from the larger family unit. No two people - no mere father and mother--as I have often said, are enough to provide emotional security for a child. They need to feel themselves as one in a world of kinfolk, persons of variety in age and temperament, and yet allied to themself by an indissoluble bond which they cannot break if they could, for nature has welded them into it before they were born." Pearl S. Buck
I would like to add: The need for emotional security is never outgrown. Grandmothers need to feel themselves "one in a world of kinfolk". Thanks to all for being a part of that security for me. How I do love you.

Please come back tomorrow for a few closing thoughts.

SPECIAL MOMENTS

2009-08-19T06:11:00.003-05:00

These are just a few among many.
When I was washing dishes and Chris came and said, "I'll help you, Grandma".

And then there was the evening that while others were fixing supper,

I did what I've always wanted to do...
I ate dessert first!

And I suppose there will always be boys and their toys.

"Sometimes it's the little things..." Blessed

THE ADVENTURESOME

2009-08-18T06:19:00.001-05:00

Which in this family, includes almost everyone.
Needless to say, it didn't include me!

This is one of three rafts of RKTer's!

But the field got narrowed down quite a bit when it came to zip-lining!
They look like they can hardly wait...

The report was that it was absolutely awesome!

"The family is one of nature's masterpieces." George Santayana, The Life of Reason

BIRTHDAY!

2009-08-17T06:20:00.003-05:00

On the morning of my 75th birthday, I stepped out onto the balcony of our condo for Curt to take my picture before we (Curt, myself, Mark and Debi) departed for , to me, a much anticipated drive to Asheville, N. Carolina and a visit to Biltmore House. Biltmore is the largest private residence in America and a visit there "is to cross the threshold into a world of hospitality, beauty, and luxury that has remained unchanged for more than a century, and is being preserved for many generations yet to come."

It truly was like stepping back in time; and I enjoyed the day tremendously.

It was six years in the building, and was first opened to family and friends on Christmas Eve in 1895.

This 250 -room mansion featured 33 family and guest bedrooms, 43 bathrooms, 65 fireplaces, three kitchens and an indoor bowling alley and swimming pool.

"No residence in America offers a more authentic, original, and inspiring view of life at the end of the 1800's. Faithfully preserved and filled with thousands of original furnishing, it's rooms suggest that the Vanderbilts, their friends, and employees are still at home. It is four-stories of living quarters and a"downstairs" domain of kitchens, laundries, gymnasium, servants' bedrooms and dining room, vegetable pantry, walk-in refrigerators, and other areas necessary to the smooth-flowing operation of a household constantly filled with guests...among them European royalty, ambassadors, politicians, industrialists, artists, entertainers etc."
And on this day, we had come to call.

It includes five gardens, a working farm, stables, a winery, and much more.

continued...

2009-08-17T06:16:00.004-05:00

After a visit to the Welcome Center we drove to the part of the estate called "Deerpark". There, we enjoyed "a bountiful buffet spread inspired by Southern and Appalachian cuisine" in the lovely restaurant that is housed in a historic barn original to the estate. We were the first visitors of the day and had a grand lunch in a beautiful setting. Now we were ready to "see it all".

We toured the home (no picture taking allowed), unrushed and taking in all the information available as to the construction, the opening, the living, the entertaining, and the family history. It was such fun. We then drove through the Walled Garden area to the Biltmore Winery. There we took a self-guided tour through the Cellars that led to the Tasting Room, where friendly hosts offered up samples of award-winning wines. A visit to the Wine Shop and a little shopping, and it was time for dinner. We chose "The Bistro" located beside the Winery and enjoyed a "dining experience inspired by the estate's gardens, vineyards, and farm". All of this topped off with a birthday surprise of chocolate truffles and fresh strawberries!

I made a wish, blew out the candle, and we headed home.

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continued II

2009-08-17T06:08:00.001-05:00

To a SURPRISE!!!!

With decorations, a beautiful Birthday Cake with candles, (I blew them out and doubled up on the same wish : ) ... bound to come true now) cards and presents, ice cream and chocolate syrup!

Thanks guys and gals for one of the best birthdays ever!

Did anyone get any other pictures?

"What greater thing is there for human souls than to feel that they are joined for life - to be with each other in silent unspeakable memories." George Eliot http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/George_Eliot

The Ripley Aquarium in Gatlinburg

2009-08-14T06:20:00.001-05:00

It really was great! No words, just pictures.

continued...

continued II

2009-08-14T06:17:00.001-05:00

continued...

continued III

2009-08-14T06:14:00.001-05:00

Hope you will come back next week....

"The family - that dear octopus from whose tentacles we never quite escape, nor, in our inmost hearts, ever quite wish to." Dodie Smith

CADES COVE

2009-08-13T06:26:00.000-05:00

From Roaring Fork we traveled to Cades Cove Loop Road, an 11-mile narrow one-way journey through what is one of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park's most popular places to visit.
On every Wednesday and Saturday mornings, this Loop Road is closed to car traffic and opened to cylists to enjoy. On Wednesday morning, a large number of our group took advantage of this, renting bikes, with some traveling the entire loop and others using one of the "cut offs", making the trip shorter in miles, but still a wonderful and inspiring journey. We had planned our day to arrive at the point of entry just as the road was reopened to autos. It all worked out well. Thanks to those among us who are really good "planners". (You know who you are. : ) )
"A "cove" in Smokey Mountain vernacular is a relatively flat valley between mountains or ridge. This particular cove is a showcase for some of the most inspiring natural and cultural treasures that the Southern Appalachian Mountains have to offer."

continued...

continued...

2009-08-13T06:22:00.000-05:00

This drive offered up beautiful views and historic sites.

"The Elijah Oliver Place had a "stranger room" added to the front porch to accommodate overnight visitors." I suppose a forerunner of what we would call a "guest room".

"And it was the custom of some families in the Cove to have a "weaner cabin" on the farm.

A son would marry and bring his bride to the weaner cabin. They were far enough from his family for privacy and some degree of independence, yet close enough to help and be helped.

In the time and place of these families, more buildings were required for living than now. They needed the springhouse, and the smokehouse, the corn crib, a barn, and some large farms had their own blacksmith shops."

And they built churches.

A Baptist and Methodist.

"Methodists were not as numerous as Baptists in the Cove, but enough of them got together in the 1820's to build a log building that lasted until this one replaced it in 1902.

Notice that the church has two front doors. This usually indicates the church follows the custom of men sitting on one side of the house and women on the other. But this church didn't follow that custom. The two doors are there because the church borrowed the building plans of another church that did divide its congregation by gender." : )

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continued II

2009-08-13T06:17:00.002-05:00

Some other points of interest: The Visitor Center was the starting point for a walking tour of the Cable Mill Area.
An interesting
piece of farm
equipment.

A sorghum
mill.
"The sorghum cane stalks were cut in the fall and stripped of their leaves, then run through the rollers of the mill powered by a horse or mule pulling a long pole in a circle. The rollers pressed out the cane juice, which was boiled down into molasses in a nearby furnace."
The early Cove dwellers may have tired of cornbread three meals a day. Everyone grew corn as the major crop. So mills to grind it were necessary from the first .The earliest mills were tiny "tub mills" which ground slowly and ground only corn. (see yesterday's blog) Some say they only "cracked" the corn. It was 1831 before the Cove had a more sophisticataed mill, with stones for grinding wheat into flour, so people could eat biscuits--or even cake--on Sundays."

"For most of its history, Cades Cove has been a place to visit. But for more than 100 years it also was a great place to live. Around two million visitors come each year to drive the Loop Road. They enjoy seeing the deer and other wildlife. They like to feel the Cove's pastoral serenity and the protection of the surrounding mountains. And some delight in imagining themselves in the places of those who cut the trees and built the houses and barns, worked a living from the land and created a community." Guide Book
I like to think that we can count ourselves among those who came, saw, felt, and imagined the specialness of this place.
Worth viewing: http://www.cadescove.net/auto_tour.html

ROCK, ROCKS, NOTHING BUT ROCKS

2009-08-12T06:20:00.002-05:00

This is how the guide book described this land.
"The Roaring Fork community was settled about 170 years ago by people in search of new ground to farm, and the turn of the century found the mature little hamlet stabilized at about two dozen families.
This was enough to support a few small tub mills, a store, a church and a school.
The stream is a crooked crease in the lumpy skirts of Mt. LeCont and settlers followed it because it ran through the most nearly level land, in a place where there is no level land.
The road (that we were on) followed the stream, and was built with local labor...hard labor.
Picks and shovels were used to level high spots, fill ruts and move rocks.
Large boulders were blasted apart with powder or dynamite. Lacking that, they were heated with fire and cracked off with cold water.
This was done year after year, but somehow the rocks never got fewer."
"Eph" and "Nervie" Bales owned 70 acres of these rocks and managed to cultivate 30 of them.
"Hardscrabble" is one name for a place like this. The Bales and their nine children lived crammed into this dog-trot cabin, and life for them was as sparse and hard as the ground around them."
http://www.californios.us/family/dog-trot.htm
"In many of these buildings we see how they managed to cope with the world around them on its terms--not theirs."

The cabin at Jim Bales place.

"Building required trees and hard work, so no one built anything larger than necessary"

"These buildings allow us to see how they sheltered family and livestock, stored food, protected tools and equipment, and earned a living."

continued...

continued...

2009-08-12T06:15:00.004-05:00

And speaking of earning a living....our next stop was The Alfred Reagan Place, and the story of a real entrepreneur!
"Alfred Reagan was a farmer: he had cattle and crops, but also fruit trees and timber; and Mrs. Reagan had her flowers, which helped add to the beauty of their saddlebag house which was painted in all three colors that Sears Roebuck had to offer ."

But Alfred had others things too.

"He was well developed in manual skills and the business sense to do something with them. A jack of all trades, he practiced most of them close to home.
His carpentry tools left their mark all over the Roaring Fork community, and a death usually sent Reagan to his shop to make the coffin--free of charge.
The rocky mountainside was hard on farm equipment and wagons, so he saw a need and the way to make a little extra money: and a blacksmith shop soon appeared beside the creek.
Always looking for ways to support his growing family, by about 1900 the community was large enough to need a store...so he built one, and turned it over to his son to keep it stocked and open.
Either not content with his holdings, or still bursting with energy, Reagan capped his enterprises with a "tub mill"
As was customary, he charged one gallon per bushel for grinding. Alfred Reagan had learned one of the secrets of stability and success that many others did not--diversity.
Yet he was not greedy. In his more active years he was a lay preacher in the church that he helped build, on land that he donated."

http://www.spoom.org/pdf/lovett%20tub%20wheel.pdf

"To know people of the past is to know ourselves better. To know what has been done is to know what can be done if need be. (remember Dolly's philosophy?)

To realize how difficult life was for them is to see how easy it is for us.

People were limited to what the immediate world would give them.

Technology and transportation would not yet allow them to alinate themselves from natural conditions." Guide Book

more about this day on the mountain tomorrow...please come back

RE: WATERFALLS AND WILDLIFE

2009-08-11T06:26:00.002-05:00

When it was finally decided that The Great Smokey Mountains were to be our destination in 2009, I was forwarded (I think it originated with Sarah) a 10-page spread from National Geographic telling all about this wonder of God's creation.
I read it very carefully and found myself underlining things I hoped to see and do. Everywhere the word, "waterfall" appeared, my pencil touched down.
I realized that some of them would be inaccessible to a novice hiker such as myself; but fortunately the article made it clear that I would also be able to enjoy a good many of these beautiful sights.
One day, Curt and family included me in a wonderful "Roaring Fork Auto Tour" and the "Cades Cove Tour".
What an exciting day it was. Nature, history, wildlife, folk stories, and so much more.
This truly proved to be some of those "spiritual" moments that I spoke of earlier.
For the next few days I will be posting pictures and words from this journey.
Today, we will be looking at "waterfalls and wildlife."
The quotes are from the little guide books that are available at the beginning of the tours.
"Waterfalls are not spectacular here. They do not spill from the mouths of glacial troughs or leap into thunderous basins. Most of them are small, like this, with only a few on the larger and rambunctious side."

"All have one pleasant feature in common. The air around them is moist and cool, the coolness being caused by evaporation. Pause, and enjoy the feel of nature's refrigeration."

We did.

continued...

continued...

2009-08-11T06:22:00.002-05:00

"Called 'The Place of a Thousand Drips,' this waterfall is cutting away at bedrock. You are watching the formation of a side canyon, although you will never live to see the finished product. A place of beauty; it is also home to water-loving plants--mosses, liverworts, and ferns."

The name is most appropriate.
Everywhere you gazed into this mountainside, there was a tiny little flow of water....Everywhere!

The girls braved the very slick surfaces and climbed almost to the top.

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continued II

2009-08-11T06:18:00.003-05:00

We now turn to "wildlife".
The first signs of "creatures in the wild" that we saw was a skunk!
And that was the first evening we were there...and it was on the parking lot of the condos! (didn't get a picture, sorry).
Of course, the most prized sighting is a bear.
We did see one, but it was on the move up the mountain, and I didn't get a picture.
Some of the other folks saw and photographed "up close and personal" a mama bear with 3 cubs. Also as described by Peggy 2, an "adolescent"...also caught on film.
However, I did get pictures of

A turkey! : )
and this beautiful creature.
(Curt took this one with my camera)

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continued III

2009-08-11T06:12:00.000-05:00

In our ongoing quest for more native wildlife, we kept our eyes peeled, ever vigilent to any stirring in the forest.
And then suddenly, as we came around a bend in the road....there they were...
Llamas!

They were getting a little breakfast, and then being tethered together for their journey.

Off they go....

And what was their
destination?

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continued IV

2009-08-11T06:00:00.001-05:00

A little review....
Do you rememer me mentioning Curt's climb to the top of Mount LeConte?
Well, there's a lodge up there.
With a dining room.

And cabins.
And yes, that means that supplies are needed.
And so three times a week, these 'gentle beasts of burden' (as described in Webster's dictionary), and their owner, make the trek to the top.
http://www.lecontelodge.com/

click on "getting there" for some really interesting facts about this.

Amazing!
please come back tomorrow for more about this wonderful day.

"When we look at our lives, the greatest happinesses are family happinesses"
Joyce Brothers
"Happinesses". You won't find that in Webster
http://forum.wordreference.com/showthread.php?t=1246054
Nevertheless, I think we all know and understand it's meaning .

One of my great "happinesses" on this trip was seeing and doing all the things I wanted to; and to see those I love and cherish having such a good time being able to do the things they wanted to do.

Again, "thanks" are in order.

A MAGICAL EVENING

2009-08-10T08:31:00.001-05:00

As regular readers of this blog know, due to illness in his immediate family, youngest son, Brad, could not be with us on this RKT vacation. However, several weeks prior to our planned departure to Tennessee, he had made arrangements for a good friend of his and Brandys to travel to Seviersville to bring us a special evening of music, family style! When Brad knew he would not be able to follow through on the final and "fine points" arrangements, he engaged his older brothers to see that this special celebration happened. With Curt being the "point man" and a will to make this happen...we enjoyed a really awesome time.

continued...

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2009-08-10T08:19:00.001-05:00

Jeff and his wife, Tony traveled over 200 miles to add to this family's vacation experience.

As you can see, he played long into the evening. Lots of "oldies". A really great mix of styles and selections.

It was wonderful.

And I enjoyed every minute of it.

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continued II

2009-08-10T08:12:00.001-05:00

And it appears so did a lot of other folks!

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continued III

2009-08-10T08:09:00.001-05:00

As an added and unexpected treat, the cousins put together a delicious supper of super terrific sandwiches with all the trimmings. Yum, yum...Nice job, guys and gals.

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continued IV

2009-08-10T07:43:00.001-05:00

And into the night it went!

It truly was a magical evening, and for me, one of the best moments of it all was when Mike, the eldest, whispered in my ear as we shared a dance, "It's kind of like having a little of Brad's spirit with us, isn't it?"
And he was right.
Time and distance and circumstances are no match for love and family.
Thanks be to God for the gift He has given.

CLINGMANS DOME

2009-08-07T06:20:00.001-05:00

My first venture into the park was a roadtrip to Clingmans Dome, the highest point in the park.
The journey passes from lowland hardwood timber to high-altitude spruce-fir forests, and gives the visitor "a vertical trip that is ecologically equivalent to a journey from Georgia to Canada." (National Geographic)
The everchanging landscape is truly breathtaking.

continued....

Clingmans Dome continued

2009-08-07T06:15:00.002-05:00

The winding journey led to Clingmans Dome Road which veered sharply through forest to a parking lot where there begins a steep 1/2 mile trail ending at a spiral ramp which leads to a lookout tower at the top of the 6,643 foot dome.
I made it!

"There is a kind of thick, luxurious green moss that grows in the shady places up in the hills. My sisters and I played house with it. We'd use it to cover stumps and pretend they were upholstered chairs and sofas or we'd lay it on the ground for carpet." Dolly Parton
We're up
here...

And you're
down there!

"Sometimes our hearts get tangled, and our souls a little off-kilter.
Friends and family can set us right, and help guide us back to the light."
Sera Christann

Let's each one of us try to remember to always be sensitive to the truth in Sera's thoughts; and try to always be discerning to our loved ones needs...even though not expressed in words.
And then be willing to "be there", even though that sometimes takes some real humbling on our part. Blessed

Love to all....see you Monday, Good Lord willing.

THE ADVENTURE BEGINS

2009-08-06T06:27:00.002-05:00

Saturday morning began a week of various exciting, fun-filled, challenging, back-in-time, delicious, hilarious, surprising, musical and at times spiritual days and evenings.
It all began with the morning view from our balcony.

And included white-water rafting, hiking (from Curt's trek up...and down...Mount Le Conte, aka as "High Top", elev. 6,589 and the 3rd highest in the park, to my meandering along the paths that led to various sites and sounds...and everything in between), horseback riding, fishing, zip-lining, shopping, traveling the historic offerings by bike, car and on foot, (more about that later), searching for bears and all things wild, swimming, sunning, exploring, dining, (both great homecooked and eating out), checking out the tourists spots in Pigeon Forge and Gatlinburg, including a visit to an exciting Aquarium, visiting and sharing, and just having a great time with everyone doing just what they wanted to do...and only one standing rule (which always applies when we gather) "Have Fun!".
We often ended the day with the "game of the week", Mexican Train.

Add a liitle
left over
pizza and a
beverage of
choice...great
fun.

Or one could
just relax and
catch up on
the news of
the day.

"Families are a a lot like fudge....mostly sweet...some with nuts and some without." Author Unknown
I will leave to the judgment of each of you as to which category we fall into, but I know what I think!

More tomorrow.

THE YOUNGER GENERATION

2009-08-05T07:17:00.000-05:00

To me, one of the very special things about this trip was the fact that the young folks wanted very much to be a part of this family outing.
Cousins

Friends

please scroll down...

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2009-08-05T07:10:00.003-05:00

Sweethearts

Newlyweds
(1 year)
and of course
sweethearts
too. : )

"Call it a clan, call it a network, call it a tribe, call it a family.

Whatever you call it, whoever you are, you need one."

Jane Howard

We missed the ones of this generation that couldn't be with us, but we are certain that if jobs and circumstances hadn't kept them away, they would have joined us.

I think all of them share Jane's sentiments; and that surely warms a grandmother's heart.

THE GATHERING

2009-08-04T06:36:00.004-05:00

The "menfolk" are all lined up to guide in the last arrivals. The "East Coast Connection" is almost here....
Mark has
them spotted
and is on the
cell phone.
"Turn, left...
no, right....
no ????

Well, in
spite of all
the help,
they made
it!

"These snacks
are good...
but what's
for dinner? "

What else?
PIZZA!

We gave thanks for everyone's safe arrival, and enjoyed the first evening of our week together.

"You don't choose your family.
they are God's gift to you, as you are to them." Desmond Tutu

FAMILY VACATION

2009-08-03T06:35:00.003-05:00

On July 17th, our family and some very special friends headed for the Great Smoky Mountains.
Brad and family were not able to join us as planned due to the sudden illness of Crystal, his daughter-in-law who was 7 1/2 months pregnant.
She had developed ARDS (acute respiratory distress syndrome), and was put on life support almost immediately.
The baby was delivered....a 3lb, 9oz baby girl that they named Audriara....and with good care and lots of prayers has been doing very well ever since.
Crystal showed no improvement for a period of almost two weeks; but I am happy and thankful to report that last week she began to improve and
is now on her way to what we are trusting will be a full recovery.

To God be the glory!

Well, anyway, for the next week or so I will be posting pictures and words about the marvelous week 17 of us had in the mountains of Tennesee.

I would also recommend that you click on Sarah's blog http://www.sarerinthal.blogspot.com/ for more beautiful pictures and stories of our adventures .

2009 is the 75th Anniversay of the Great Smokey Mountain National Park.
It seems 1934 was a very good year....as while we were there, I celebrated my 75th birthday also. (more about that later)

Dolly Parton has been made the official ambassador of The Park for the year, and the following are a few of her words about the place where she grew up as told to Guidepost Magazine:

"All that I am comes from those mountains where I was born and raised.
If I close my eyes, I can see the mist on the peaks, the bluebirds on the fencepost, the meadows filled with purple ironweed and wild daisies.
I remember chasing butterflies and hummingbirds.
I loved running barefoot in the hills, my feet tender in the spring then brown and tough by summer's end.
Just hearing the word, 'barefoot' still conjures up a sense of wonder and freedom for me... because that's what I had growing up.

I knew there was a world beyond the Smokies..the geese and butterflies had to be flying somewhere, after all..and I wanted to see it for mself.
So I moved away after high school.
But I always came back for what I discovered growing up there: wonder and wisdom, music and inspiration, freedom and faith.
Even today, in these hard economic times, I think, well, if the worst happens and I lose everything, I can always go home to the mountains, plant a vegetable garden, maybe raise a few chickens.
I'll go back to God's green earth and he'll give me everything I need, just like he always has."

Please come back tomorrow.....Love, Blessed

A LITTLE CORNER OF THE GARDEN

2009-07-16T06:20:00.001-05:00

Leaving tomorrow for a family vacation.
We are traveling to the Smoky Mountains in Tennesee.
Know we will have a wonderful time.
Feel truly "Blessed" to have such a wonderful family.
I will be celebrating my 75th birthday while we are there.

Birthdays are good for you.
Statistics show that the people who have the most live the longest. : )

"So teach us to number our days, that we may apply our hearts unto wisdom."
Psalm 90:12

See you in August....hopefully with pictures of God's incredible creation.

BLACK-EYED SUSAN

2009-07-15T06:33:00.000-05:00

TFT: Sometimes we are so busy adding up our troubles that we forget to count our blessings.
"I will remember the works of the Lord; surely I will remember thy wonders of old, I will meditate also of all thy work, and talk of thy doings." Psalm 77: 11-12

DAISIES

2009-07-14T06:17:00.000-05:00

The secret of contentment is the realization that life is a gift, not a right.

"But godliness with contentment is great gain.

For we brought nothing into this world, and it is certain we can carry nothing out." 1 Timothy 6:6-7

GRATITUDE

2009-07-13T06:20:00.000-05:00

TFT: "Each day is a gift from God....
have you said 'Thank you' today?"

SHADOWS

2009-07-10T06:18:00.004-05:00

JUST AN IDEA: A young man was employed by a large bank at a very modest salary. He soon began dressing flashily and bought a new car.

Finally, the personnel manager asked him, "How is it that you, who are only making $150 a week, can spend what must certainly be $500 a week or more?"

"Why, it's simple," the clerk replied, unabashed. "There are some 300 employees here, and every payday I raffle off my paycheck at two dollars a ticket."

Have a blessed weekend.

WELCOME

2009-07-09T06:28:00.001-05:00

Another
front porch
bouquet.

A Prayer for the day: "Father, quiet my heart and mind so I may hear the leading of Your Spirit in my life" anonymous

AROUND THE GARDEN

2009-07-08T06:22:00.003-05:00

Everything seems
to be doing well.

TFT: "God commands us to be filled with the Spirit; and if we are not filled, it is because we are living beneath our privileges." D. L. Moody

SUMMER PARTY

2009-07-07T06:11:00.002-05:00

Friends and
neighbors
from
The Hill

We had
a good time.

Sharing a piece of cake, a cup of punch with friends....great!

TFT: "A christian tastes God in all small pleasures."
T. I. Packer

JULY SURPRISE

2009-07-06T06:17:00.001-05:00

When I went out early Sunday morning to "check out" the garden, I noticed this beautiful thing peeking out from under the green.
Yes, it is an
iris in July!
How great
is that?

I don't know if it's a "late bloomer" or really ahead of it's appointed time.

WHEN IN THE COURSE OF HUMAN EVENTS

2009-07-03T06:18:00.000-05:00

"We hold these
truths to be
self-evident.."

Have a great 4th of July and don't forget to give thanks for your FREEDOM!

JUST PLAIN SILLY

2009-07-02T06:26:00.000-05:00

But good for a smile...
"Is it just me,
or do buffalo
wings taste a
lot like chicken?
and:
If swimming
is so good
for your figure,
how do you
explain whales?"

A LITTLE HUMOR III

2009-07-01T06:27:00.000-05:00

"Experience
is what you
have left when
everything
else is gone."

A LITTLE HUMOR II

2009-06-30T06:35:00.001-05:00

"All I ask is
the chance
to prove that
money can't
make me happy"
: )
anonymous

TIME FOR A LITTLE HUMOR

2009-06-29T06:27:00.000-05:00

"I had amnesia
once...or maybe
twice.
I forgot"